Module 1 The Appreciation Technique

Question 1

What is the APPRECIATION Technique? (IDENTIFYING A QUESTION)

Answer 1

Cognitive tool when the investigator identifies a question arising from a problem.
STEP 1 - Aim or objective
A short statement of intent beginning with a verb. Consider what you will do to address the situation or problem. It should be brief and to the point.
STEP 2 - Factors (pull it apart i.e so what?)
Statement of truth about some known influence or circumstance. Examine all the information you have regarding the situation or problem. Identify what must be done.
- seriousness of incident
- patterns of incidents
- time available
-possible suspects / witnesses
- material located to date
- policy procedures
STEP 3 - Courses Open (Options / course of actions)
The options you can identify after having assessed the factors to resolve the problem.
i.e NIA checks, media, bully board
STEP 4 - Plan
Select the most appropriate courses of action for attention and plan the action you can take.
i.e Is is achievable/effective, will it pass the SELF test.

Question 2

What are the two forms of written appreciation?

Answer 2

FULL APPRECIATION (serious cases i.e homocide)
- Most often used for high level or difficult problems.
SHORT APPRECIATION (lower level cases)
- Non urgent problems that are not complicated or complex used mostly in daily police duties.

Question 3

What are written and mental appreciations?

Answer 3

Provides a record of decision making and shows why a certain course of action was taken. Completed when

• There are several points to be considered, there is a danger of important points being overlooked.
• A clear picture is desired to present a logical argument